Severe Flooding Traps Drivers in Nairobi as Military Joins Rescue Efforts

Intense overnight rainfall flooded Kenya's capital city, leaving drivers stranded for hours and prompting military deployment to assist rescue operations. Emergency crews struggled to reach trapped residents as hip-deep water covered roadways throughout Nairobi.

NAIROBI, Kenya — Drivers found themselves trapped for hours on Saturday as flooding overwhelmed the streets of Kenya’s capital following intense overnight downpours.

Military personnel were called in to support emergency rescue operations, while the local toll road company eliminated charges for drivers using elevated highways.

The deluge started Friday and persisted through the night, completely submerging cars and forcing drivers in certain locations to walk through waist-deep floodwaters to find safety on higher ground.

Social media platforms filled with footage showing waterlogged residences throughout the city.

Military rescue teams were dispatched during the night to bolster emergency services as Kenya Red Cross response crews faced difficulties reaching stranded individuals.

Kenya Red Cross Secretary-General Ahmed Idris explained that search and rescue operations were working around the clock to help those trapped.

“We are severely limited by the traffic and the situation on what used to be roads. We are doing our best to reach those in need,” he wrote on X.

Local citizens attributed the severe flooding to blocked storm drains, arguing that municipal leaders should have prepared by maintaining proper drainage systems before the current wet season began.

Resident Aisha Bajaber expressed frustration on X, writing, “The whole city is flooded yet again. How long will officials keep ignoring the lack of drainage?”

The country has experienced continuous rainfall since the end of February, marking the beginning of the extended rainy period.

Past wet seasons have brought devastating floods, landslides, and mudslides that have claimed hundreds of lives and forced thousands from their homes.